When can a guard use a firearm?

The appropriate use of a firearm by a guard is when there is an imminent threat to life. This guideline is critical in maintaining both legal and ethical standards in the security profession. A guard's primary responsibility is to protect life and property while de-escalating situations where possible. The use of deadly force is only justified when there is a clear and immediate danger to life, such as an armed assailant threatening the safety of individuals.

In considering other contexts for using a firearm, simply showing authority or using it as a precautionary measure does not hold up under professional standards. Firearms should not be used merely as a display of power or to intimidate; doing so can lead to unnecessary escalation and legal consequences. Similarly, using firearms for training purposes, while essential for skill development, does not justify their use in active duty situations unless an immediate threat to life arises. The focus must remain on safety and the preservation of life, making the established criteria for the use of firearms both clear and necessary for trained personnel.